ENVELOPE AND FOLDABLE ENVELOPE SHEET

Abstract

 An envelope is recognized from its appearance as an envelope not provided with perforations and is easy and infallible to open without use of a cutting tool, such as scissors. In an envelop (F1) with an opening-side flap (15) folded to cover an opening (8), perforations (M1) are formed along the opening (8), and an adhesive part (10A) for sealing is formed in the vicinity of the perforations (M1) to adhere the opening-side flap (15) to the back wall of the envelope. The opening-side flap (15) is folded and adhered so as to cover the perforations (M1).

Description

Field of Art:

[0001] The present invention relates to an envelope easy and infallible to open and a blank folded to form the envelope.

Background Art:

[0002] A receiver who receives an envelope or a sealed document opens it using scissors, a cutter, a paper knife or other such cutting tool. However, various envelopes have been disclosed (JU-A 04-19436, JU-A 06-35139, JU Reg. 3011338, JP-A-10-181749, for example). These are formed with an array of perforations or cut scores at the outer periphery thereof and a gripping tab at the end thereof so as to enable opening without use of a cutting tool such as scissors. In an ordinary envelope not formed with an array of perforations or cut scores, when the closure flap folded to close an opening of the envelop is pinched at the outer peripheral end between the fingers to open the envelope, it is prone to partial tear. This generally requires a receiver to use a cutting tool such as scissors to open the envelope.

[0003] In an envelope formed at the periphery with an array of perforations or cut scores, there is a possibility of part of the envelope being cut off at the array of perforations or cut scores during the delivery to expose the contents to the outside. Furthermore, the envelope looks poor in the presence of perforations or cut scores formed to be conspicuous for a receiver and is therefore not preferable from the standpoint of appearance. What is worse, there is a possibility of the envelope being torn off or cut off during mailing. When the perforations or cut scores have a large size, there is a possibility of water, such as rainwater, entering the envelope via the perforations or cut scores to dirty the contents in the envelope.

[0004] In general, mail treatment at a post office is mechanically conducted. In treating envelopes formed at the periphery with perforations or cut scores, there is a possibility of a machine catching the perforations or cut scores depending on the size, pitch, etc. of the perforations or cut scores. This makes it impossible to mechanically treat the envelopes or cause paper clogging, resulting in the machine being out of order.

[0005] For this reason, "a research meeting on the shape etc. of mail difficult to mechanically treat" has started functioning. Researches have been made in determining the standards of the shape etc. of mail that can be mechanically treated and in setting the determination methods. Nowadays, has been provided "a guideline relating to mechanically treatable mail (first-class and second-class mail)." According to the guideline, in the case of envelopes provided at each side with an array of perforations or cut scores (envelopes for mail of not more than 25 g), for example, the positions of the arrays are required to be at one of the short sides of an envelope. In addition, the perforations or cut scores in the arrays are required to have a length of not exceeding 2 mm and the uncut portions in the arrays to have a length of not exceeding 1 mm. Furthermore, attention have to be paid to the contents to be inserted into an envelope so as not to have steps that would give any stress to the arrays of perforations or score holes. Moreover, in the case of mail having a weight of exceeding 25 g and not more than 50 g, a single array has to be formed at one short side of an envelope distant from the face value printing surface thereof. In the case of a zipper type, the position is limited to the lower short side of an envelope.

[0006] Generally, the opening of an envelope on the side of the closure flap is utilized in sealing the envelope with the closure flap after insertion of the contents and opening the envelope to take the contents out of the envelope. However, the perforations or cut scores of conventional envelopes are formed on the side of the closure flap. This has sometimes brought about the case where the perforations or cut scores are damaged when sealing with the closure flap and the case where good adhesion cannot be obtained when adhering the closure flap to the envelop with an adhesive.

[0007] In view of the above, the first object of the present invention is to provide an envelope formed with perforations not discernible from the outside, that is easy and fallible to open. The second object thereof is to provide an envelope not formed with perforations, but capable of being opened in the same manner as envelopes formed with perforations. The third object thereof is to provide a blank folded to form each of the envelopes aimed at.

Disclosure of the Invention:

[0008] An envelope set forth in claim 1 according to the present invention comprises an opening-side flap folded back to close an envelope opening and adhered to an opening-side wall of the envelope with an adhesive, and is characterized by an array of perforations that is formed along the opening for use in opening the envelope and covered with the flap that has been adhered. According to the envelope of this invention, when a receiver pinches the peripheral side end of the flap with his/her fingers and intends to open the envelope, the sealed adhesive part of the adhered flap pulls the array of perforations up. This results in clear-cut cutting along the array without leaving the flap remaining. Since the perforation array is covered with the adhered flap, it is not discernible from the outside. This envelope looks like the one formed with no perforation and has no possibility of water, such as rainwater, entering it. It is noted that how to open this envelope is the same as the way to open an envelope formed with no perforation. This envelope is not fragile in spite of the presence of the array of perforations because the array is closed with the flap. When a receiver pinches the peripheral side end of the flap with his/her fingers and intends to open the envelope, the flap pulls the array of perforations up via its sealed adhesive part. This enables clear-cut and infallible cutting along the array. Therefore, it is possible to completely eliminate the possibility of part of the flap being left remaining and the possibility of the contents being damaged. Thus, the receiver can open the envelope without anxiety.

[0009] An envelope set forth in claim 2 according to the present invention comprises an opening-side flap folded back to close an envelope opening and adhered to an opening-side wall of the envelope with an adhesive, and is characterized by a plurality of adhesive spots for sealing disposed at predetermined intervals so as to seal a proximal end side of the flap and a plurality of adhesive spots disposed at predetermined locations on a distal end side of the flap for preventing outward spread of the flap. According to the envelope of this invention, when a receiver pinches a predetermined part of an outer peripheral flap with his/her fingers, pinches a predetermined part of an overlapping flap with his/her fingers and pulls the parts in opposite directions, the envelope is cut out (split off) at the adhesive spots for sealing disposed at predetermined intervals on the proximal end side of the opening-side flap. Thus, this envelope can be easily and infallibly opened in the same manner as an envelope formed with a perforation array. In addition, since the adhesive spots are formed at predetermined locations on the distal end side of the opening-side flap for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap, there is no possibility of the opening-side flap being split off during mailing. When the adhesive spots for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap are disposed at the predetermined locations only, it is possible to pinch with fingernails or fingers the outer peripheral side end of the opening-side flap not formed with the adhesive spots. This is convenient in opening the envelope. In addition, a hindrance to the mechanical treatment at a post office (mailing office) that has been encountered by conventional envelopes formed at the periphery with perforations or cut scores can be eliminated.

[0010] An envelope set forth in claim 3 according to the present invention characterized in that it comprises at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back inward and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, that the outer peripheral flap is formed in a lengthwise direction with an array of perforations, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered to the outer peripheral flap. According to the envelope of this invention, since the outer peripheral flap, that has the perforations, is overlapped by the overlapping flap. Since the overlapping flap overlaps the outer peripheral flap with the perforation array, the array is not discernible from the outside. This envelope looks like the one formed with no perforation. When a receiver pinches a predetermined part of the outer peripheral flap with his/her fingers, pinches a predetermined part of the overlapping flap with his/her fingers and pulls the parts in opposite directions, the envelope is cut out along the perforation array formed in the lengthwise direction of the outer peripheral flap. Thus, this envelope can be easily and infallibly opened. In addition, a hindrance to the mechanical treatment at a post office (mailing office) that has been encountered by conventional envelopes formed at the periphery with perforations or cut scores can be eliminated.

[0011] An envelope set forth in claim 4 according to the present invention is characterized in that the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap is provided with a plurality of adhesive spots for sealing disposed at predetermined intervals so as to seal a proximal end side of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap, and a plurality of adhesive spots disposed at predetermined locations on a distal end side of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap. According to the envelope of this invention, since the adhesive spots for sealing the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap are disposed at predetermined intervals, the envelope can easily and infallibly be opened. In addition, since the adhesive spots are formed at predetermined locations on the distal end side of the opening-side flap for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap, there is no possibility of the opening-side flap being split off during mailing. When the adhesive spots for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap are disposed at the predetermined locations only, it is possible to pinch with fingernails or fingers the outer peripheral side end of the opening-side flap not formed with the adhesive spots. This is convenient in opening the envelope.

[0012] An envelope set forth in claim 5 according to the present invention is characterized in that it comprises at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered at predetermined intervals to the outer peripheral flap. According to the envelope of this invention, when a receiver pinches a predetermined part of the outer peripheral flap with his/her fingers, pinches a predetermined part of the overlapping flap with his/her fingers and pulls the parts in opposite directions, the envelope is cut out (split off) at the parts adhered at the predetermined intervals. Thus, this envelope can be easily and infallibly opened in the same manner as an envelope formed with a perforation array.

[0013] An envelope set forth in claim 6 according to the present invention is characterized in that the overlapping flap has an outer peripheral end adjacent to the outer peripheral flap and that the outer peripheral end has a part disposed inward of a fold line of the outer peripheral flap. According to the envelope of this invention, since the outer peripheral end of the overlapping flap has a part disposed inward of a fold line of the outer peripheral flap, the envelope can be easily and infallibly opened with a hand at a boundary between the outer peripheral flap and the overlapping flap due to the presence of that part.

[0014] A blank folded to form an envelope set forth in claim 7 according to the present invention comprises, in a developed state, at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and is characterized in that the outer peripheral flap is formed in a lengthwise direction with an array of perforations, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered to the outer peripheral flap. According to the blank of this invention, an envelope provided with the array of perforations and easy and infallible to open can be formed with ease. That is to say, the envelope can be formed with ease by providing a conventional blank with an array of perforations and as occasion demands changing the order of folding.

[0015] A blank folded to form an envelop set forth in claim 8 according to the present invention comprises, in a developed state, at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and is characterized in that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered at predetermined intervals to the outer peripheral flap. According to the blank of this invention, an envelope easy and infallible to open can be formed with ease in spite of the absence of an array of perforations. That is to say, the envelope can be formed with ease by attaching the outer peripheral flap and overlapping flap of a conventional blank to each other at predetermined intervals and as occasion demands changing the order of folding.

Brief Explanation of the Drawings:

[0016] Figure 1 is a rear view showing an envelope according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a rear view showing the envelope according to the first embodiment, with an opening-side closure flap developed. Figure 3 is a rear view showing a modification of the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a rear view showing an envelope according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 is a rear view showing an envelope according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a rear view showing an envelope according to the fourth embodiment, with an opening-side flap developed. Figure 7 is a rear view showing an envelope according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 8 is a rear view showing the envelope according to the fifth embodiment, with an opening-side flap developed. Figure 9 is a rear view showing another modification of the envelope of the first embodiment. Figure 10 is a rear view showing a modification of the envelope of the third embodiment. Figure 11 is a rear view showing a modification of the envelope of the fourth embodiment. Figure 12 is a rear view showing still another modification of the envelop of the first embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 13 is a rear view showing the modification of the envelope of the first embodiment according to the present invention, with the contents being inserted. Figure 14 is a rear view showing an envelope of the fifth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 15 is a front view showing, in a developed state, a blank to be folded to form an envelope of the sixth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 16 a rear view explaining the order of folding the blank into the envelope of the sixth embodiment. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing an open side of the envelope of the fifth embodiment. Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the envelope of the fifth embodiment in an opened state. Figure 19 is a front view showing a modification of the blank to be folded to form the envelope of the sixth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 20 is a rear view explaining the order of folding the blank of the above modification. Figure 21 is a front view showing a blank to be folded to form the envelope of the seventh embodiment. Figure 22 is a rear view explaining the order of folding the blank of the seventh embodiment. Figure 23 is a front view showing a blank to be folded to form the envelope of the eighth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 24 is a rear view explaining the order of folding the blank of the eighth embodiment. Figure 25 is a front view showing a blank to be folded to form the envelope of the ninth embodiment according to the present invention. Figure 26 is a rear view explaining the order of folding the blank of the ninth embodiment.

Best Mode for Embodying the Invention:

[0017] One embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First Embodiment)

[0018] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, this embodiment applies the present invention to a paper envelope F1 (called rectangular No. 3 or rectangular No. 4). This envelope F1 is formed on one side (the right side in the figures) with an opening-side flap 15 that covers an opening 8 into which contents S are inserted, and on the opposite side (the left side in the figures) with a seal-side flap 16. Both the opening-side flap 15 and the seal-side flap 16 are provided as folded back to the outer periphery of the envelope F1 and adhered to the envelope by means of an adhesive or other such means. The opening 8 of the envelope F1 is disposed on the side of the opening-side flap 15. It is noted that Figure 1 and Figure 2 show the back wall 1b of the envelope F1 and that the position at which the envelope is to be opened is given an arrow mark for easy reference.

[0019] The envelope F1 is formed with an array of perforations M1 for opening the envelope along the opening 8. The array of perforations M1 for opening the envelope helps the opening-side flap 15 to open the envelope and is formed on the outer surface of the envelope F1 but is concealed by the opening-side flap 15 when folded back. The array of perforations M1 in this embodiment is substantially linear one, with the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b extending to the peripheral side fold lines of the envelope F1. However, this is by no means limitative. It will suffice if the opposite end perforations extend to the neighborhood of the peripheral side parts. Otherwise, the array of perforations may be formed substantially in the shape of the letter "U" so that the opposite end perforations reach the opening 8 (refer to Figures 2, 4 and 5). The array of perforations M1 including the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b is substantially a linear one and has parts not concealed by the opening-side flap 15, because the opening-side flap 15 assumes a substantially trapezoidal shape. If the opening-side flap 15 is rectangular with its opposite sides coincident with the opposite sides of the envelope F2, the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b of the array of perforations M1 will be completely concealed. Thus, envelopes with part of the array of perforations not concealed by the opening-side flap 15 are included in the present invention.

[0020] At the positions in the vicinity of the array of perforations M1 for opening the envelope, there are provided at predetermined intervals adhesive spots 10A for sealing that allow the opening-side flap 15 to adhere to the outer surface of the envelope F1. Though the adhesive spots 10A are usually for allowing the opening-side flap 15 to adhere to the outer surface of the envelope F1, these also serve as means for attaining easy and clear-cut opening of the envelope. To be specific, when the envelope is to be opened with the fingers pinching an outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15, the adhesive spots 10A for sealing that are disposed at predetermined intervals cause the opening-side envelope 15 to pull the array of perforations M1 upward. For this reason, the envelope can be opened more easily than in the case of an adhesive applied to the entire surface. The adhesive spots 10A are formed inside of the array of perforations M1 for opening (at the upper side in the figures). However, this is by no means limitative. It will suffice if the adhesive spots are disposed in the vicinity of the array of perforations M1 for sealing. These may also be disposed so as to straddle the array of perforations M1 for sealing. The adhesive spots 10A may consist of adhesives or double-bonded adhesive tapes. Otherwise, these may be those subjected to seal processing so that splitting-off is easy to conduct. In recent years, post cards subjected to the seal processing can be found. A heat seal layer H is formed on one surface of a post card, and a facing surface is brought into pressure contact with the one surface. The facing surface is easy to open and looks like a cellophane paper surface (refer to Figure 12). In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 12, the opening-side flap 15 and a part of the outer surface of an envelope F1a to which the flap is attached are subjected to seal processing and brought into pressure contact with each other, thereby constituting the envelope F1a. In the case of the pressure contact by seal processing, a way to insert contents as shown in Figure 13 and described later will be advantageous. In each of the embodiments, the position of the adhesive spots 10A for sealing is on the side of opening-side flap 15. However, the position may be a corresponding position on the back wall (the outer surface on the side of the opening) 1b of the envelope F1.

[0021] When using the envelope F1 of this embodiment shown in Figure 1, contents S are inserted into the envelope F1 from its opening 8 and the envelope is closed utilizing the adhesive spots 3 to which adhesives or double-bonded adhesive tapes are applied. How to insert the contents is the same as in the case of a conventional ordinary envelope. A receiver who receives the envelope (sealed document) F1 opens the same pinching the outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15 with his/her fingers. How to open the envelope is the same as in the case of a conventional ordinary envelope. When the opening-side flap 15 folded back is intended to develop, the adhesive spots 10A for sealing in the vicinity of the array of perforations M1 for opening to which adhesives or double-bonded adhesive tapes are applied pull the portion of the array upward. As a result, the envelope is infallibly opened along the array of perforations M1 for opening in a clear-cut manner. That is to say, the flap is intended to split off from the arrow mark in Figure 1, a force of splitting the flap off along the array of perforations M1 for opening is exerted on the portion of the array. For this reason, the envelope can be opened smoothly and rhythmically along the array of perforations M1 in a clear-cut manner. Upon splitting-of reaching the opposite end perforation M1a or M1b, the envelope F1 is opened along its outer peripheral fold line. In this case, the clear-cut opening can be established even if splitting-off commences from at any point of the outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15 not provided with adhesives etc. This means that the initial splitting-off part is not always the part to which the arrow mark is given in Figure 1. Where adhesives etc. are applied to the inside only of the array of perforations M1 for opening, the one side is pulled. This ensures more clear-cut and fallible opening along the array of perforations M1. The opening-side flap 15 after opening the envelope along the array of perforations M1 has traces of perforations as shown in Figure 2.

[0022] In this embodiment, since the array of perforations M1 of the envelope F1 is covered with the adhered opening-side flap, it is not discernible from the outside. This envelope looks like the one formed with no perforation and has no possibility of water, such as rainwater, entering it. Therefore, it is unnecessary for the portion provided with the array of perforations M1 to be waterproofed for the purpose of preventing rainwater etc. from entering the envelope. Since the difference between an ordinary envelope and the envelope of this embodiment excluding the range of the adhesive spots 10A is the absence or presence of the array of perforations M1, the envelope of this embodiment can be manufactured with extreme ease. Therefore, the present invention is applicable to a blank folded back to form an conventional ordinary envelope. How to open the envelope F1 of this embodiment is the same as the way to open an envelope formed with no perforation, and the envelope F1 is not fragile in spite of the presence of the array of perforations M1 because the array is closed with the opening-side flap.15. For this reason, there is no possibility of the envelope being cut out from the array of perforations M1 for opening even when being extremely bent during mailing.

[0023] The side of the seal-side flap 16 may optionally be formed with an additional array of perforations M1 for opening so that the array is covered with the seal-side flap 16, in the same manner as on the side of the opening-side flap 15. When a receiver who receives this envelope (sealed document) intends to erroneously open the envelope from the side of the seal-side flap 16, the envelope can be opened along the additional array of perforations M1 in the same manner as from the side of the opening-side flap 15. In this case, the seal-side flap 16 serves as the opening-side flap 15. This case in which the envelope opening position is on the side of the seal-side flap 16 is included in the present invention.

[0024] A modification of the first embodiment will be described. The array of perforations M1 of an envelope F1a is formed substantially in the shape of the letter "U" as shown in Figure 2 so that the opposite end perforations reach the opening 8. To be specific, the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b are at right angles relative to those of the first embodiment and extend to the opening 8. In this case, the perforations of the perforation array M1 at the right-angle portions preferably have a large size. This is because the envelope can be opened smoothly along the perforations M1, M1a and M1b at the right-angle portions without need of an excessively forcible force. Since the array of perforations including the perpendicular opposite-end perforations is formed substantially in the shape of the letter "U", it can be covered with the substantially trapezoidal opening-side flap 15.

(Second Embodiment)

[0025] This embodiment applies the present invention to a paper envelope F2 (called rectangular No. 3 or rectangular No. 4) as shown in Figure 3. This envelope F2 is formed on one side (the top side in the figures) with an opening-side flap 15 that covers an opening 8 into which contents S are inserted, and on the opposite side (the bottom side in the figure) with a seal-side flap 16. The opening 8 of this envelope F3 is disposed on the side of the opening-side flap 15 and provided with no perforation M1 but adhesive spots 10A disposed at predetermined intervals for sealing the proximal end of the opening-side flap 15 when folded back. To be specific, an adhesive such as paste is applied in the lengthwise direction to the proximal end of the opening-side flap 15, and the proximal end is attached at predetermined intervals to the outer surface of the envelope. Various patterns of the adhesive such as paste are conceivable, including scattering application, local application and application at variable intervals.

[0026] The outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15 is provided locally with adhesive spots 10B for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap 15. There are some portions of the outer peripheral end provided with the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B (at predetermined intervals) so that the opening-side flap 15 is not split off during mailing. There are plural portions of the outer peripheral end 15a not provided with the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B are provided for easy pinching between the fingers and promoting opening of the envelope from any one of the portions. Though not shown, scattering application of an adhesive to the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B is advantageous. Scattering application of an adhesive to both the sealing adhesive spots 10A and the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B is also advantageous. This is because the tensile strength in opening the envelope can be spread, thereby enabling smooth, rhythmical, clear-cut opening of the envelope. The envelope with these advantages is suitable for encasing a card for invitation to a wedding party that is to be held beautiful.

[0027] Therefore, since this embodiment is provided not with the array of perforations M1 as is adopted in the first embodiment, but with the adhesive spots 10B at predetermined intervals for sealing the proximal end of the opening-side flap 15, the adhesive spots function like the array of perforations M1. When a receiver who receives the envelope F2 opens the same, pinching a portion of the outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15, the envelope is cut out (split off) from the adhesive spots adhered at predetermined intervals. Thus, the envelope can be easily and infallibly opened in the same manner as the envelope provided with the array of perforations M1.

(Third Embodiment)

[0028] This embodiment applies the present invention to a paper envelope F3 as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5. This envelope F3 is formed on one side (the top side in the figures) with an opening-side flap 15 that covers an opening 8 into which contents S are inserted, and on the opposite side (the bottom side in the figure) with a seal-side flap 16. The opening 8 of this envelope F3 is disposed on the side of the opening-side flap 15. An array of perforations M1 for opening in the present embodiment extends linearly along the opening 8 and assumes a U-shape, with the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b not reaching the peripheral fold lines of the envelope F3.

[0029] The outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15 is provided locally with adhesive spots 10B for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap 15. There are some portions of the outer peripheral end provided with the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B (at predetermined intervals) so that the opening-side flap 15 is not split off during mailing. There are plural portions of the outer peripheral end 15a not provided with the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B are provided for easy pinching between the fingers and promoting opening of the envelope from any one of the portions. Though not shown specifically, scattering application of an adhesive to the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B is advantageous. Scattering application of an adhesive to both the sealing adhesive spots 10A and the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B is also advantageous. This is because the tensile strength in opening the envelope can be spread, thereby enabling smooth, rhythmical, clear-cut opening of the envelope. The envelope with these advantages is suitable for encasing a card for invitation to a wedding party that is to be held beautiful.

[0030] According to this embodiment, therefore, when the envelope is intended to be opened, pinching a portion of the outer peripheral end 15a of the opening-side flap 15 not provided with the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B, the portion of the perforation array M1 is pulled up due to the presence of adhesives or double-bonded adhesive tapes applied to the positions of sealing adhesive spots 10A in the vicinity of the perforation array M1. As a result, the envelope can be infallibly opened along the perforation array M1 in a clear-cut fashion. Due to the presence of the opposite end perforations M1a and M1b of the perforation array M1, the open part of the opened envelope assumes a U-shape. In this embodiment, the envelope is infallibly opened in a clear-cut fashion from either of the position indicated by the arrow marks in Figure 3. It is noted that the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B and the adhesive scattering application can be used in the first embodiment and third and forth embodiments that will be described layer.

(Fourth Embodiment)

[0031] This embodiment applies the present invention to a so-called overseas envelope F4 as shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7. This envelope F3 is formed on one side (the top side in the figures) with a substantially triangular-shaped opening-side flap 15 that covers an opening 8 into which contents S are inserted, and on the opposite side (the bottom side in the figures) with a substantially triangular-shaped seal-side flap 16. The opening 8 assumes a substantially triangular shape.

[0032] At the opening 8 of this envelope F3 an array of perforations M1 for opening is formed along the opening 8. To be specific, a single array of perforations M1 in a substantially triangular shaped is formed on the back wall 1b of the envelope F3 along the opening 8. Adhesive spots 10A for sealing in this embodiment may be ones straddling, or ones disposed inside of the single array of perforations M1 insofar as it is disposed in the vicinity of the single array of perforations M1. It is noted that an adhesive spot 10A is not provided on an apex part 15b at the center of the opening-side flap 15.

[0033] When a receiver who receives the envelope F3 of this embodiment intends to open the same, pinching the apex part 15b (refer to the arrow mark) of the substantially rectangular opening-side flap 15 with his/her fingers the opening-side flap 15 pulls the portion of the perforation array M1 upward via the adhesive spots 10A. As a result, the envelope can be opened smoothly along the perforation array M1 in a clear-cut manner without part of the opening-side flap being left remaining, as is done in a conventional envelope. The envelope F3 of this embodiment is made of paper as well as the envelope F1 of the first embodiment. However, this is by no means limitative. It may be made of a plastic film. In addition, this embodiment is applicable to a window envelope, in which a transparent plastic film is attached to a portion thereof where the address including the name or appellation is shown.

[0034] In the meantime, there is a case where anyone requests an agency (including an agent) to prepare sealed documents in order for a great number of sealed documents to be mailed. In this case, the agency etc. will usually purchase exclusive envelopes or use available envelopes. It will be advantageous for the agency etc. to insert contents S into the envelopes and for a receiver to open an envelope if the envelopes F1, F2 and F3 of the aforementioned embodiments are used in the following manner.

[0035] As shown in Figure 9, in the case of the first embodiment, while the opening-side flap 15 is sealed via the adhesives etc., contents S are inserted into the envelope from the seal-side flap 16 on the opposite side (lower side in Figure 9) before the seal-side flap is pasted. After insertion of the contents S, the seal-side flap 16 is completely pasted up on the back wall of the envelope. As shown in Figure 10, in the case of the third embodiment, while the opening-side flap 15 is sealed via the adhesives etc., contents S are inserted into the envelope from the seal-side flap 16 on the opposite side (lower side in Figure 10) before the seal-side flap is pasted. After insertion of the contents S, the seal-side flap 16 is completely pasted up on the back wall of the envelope. As shown in Figure 11, in the case of the fourth embodiment, while the opening-side flap 15 is sealed via the adhesives etc., contents S are inserted into the envelope from the seal-side flap 16 on the opposite side (lower side in Figure 10) before the seal-side flap is pasted. In this case, the portions of the substantially rectangular seal-side envelope excluding its apex part 16b are pasted, and the apex part 16b is inserted into the corresponding apex part 15b of the opening-side flap 15 after insertion of the contents S. By inserting the contents S into the envelope from the opposite side (lower side in Figure 11) as described above, damage of the perforation array M1, failure to infallible attachment of the opening-side flap 15 and other such inconvenience can be eliminated even when an agency etc. performs insertion work for a great number of sealed documents to be mailed. Thus, the insertion work is easy and infallible to perform, and is more convenient. The envelopes (or sealed documents) with contents S sealed therein completely can be mailed.

[0036] As regards the envelope F4 having the flap subjected to seal processing and attached under pressure, as shown in Figure 12, contents are inserted in the same manner as described above. That is to say, a receiver who receives this envelope can open the same with ease form the opening 8. This is because most flaps subjected to seal processing do not resume their original state. In view of this, the envelope F4 is used, as shown in Figure 13, by inserting contents S into the envelope from an opening of the seal-side flap 16 and sealing the seal-side flap. This eliminates damage of the perforation array M1, failure to infallible attachment of the opening-side flap 15 and other such inconvenience when inserting the contents. Thus, the envelopes (or sealed documents) F54 with contents S sealed therein completely can be mailed.

(Fifth Embodiment)

[0037] This embodiment applies the present invention to a large-sized envelope F5 as shown in Figure 14. This envelope is formed on one side (the top side in the figure) with an opening-side flap 15 that covers an opening into which contents S are inserted and on the opposite side (the bottom side in the figure) with a fold-up portion 17 that is expanded in accordance with the amount of the contents. This large-sized envelope F5 can be called an "envelope-shaped container" that is a more suitable expression, and has a predetermined thickness so that a great number of documents can be inserted therein, with the width adjustable by the fold-up amount of the fold-up portion 17. The open-side flap 15 to which a gummed tape G or double-bonded adhesive tape is attached is bent at a fold-back line 18 (in the direction indicated by the arrow mark in the figure). If the contents S are stored in the bottom of the envelope, the fold-back is conducted plural times and the interface between last fold-back portion and the surface of the envelope is staggered by the gummed tape G (or double-bonded adhesive tape) for attaching the two.

[0038] This type of container F5 is one of envelopes used as a postal parcel, a container for home delivery, etc. This envelope F5 is formed with an array of perforations M1 for opening along the opening 8 thereof. Other constitution is similar to those of the first to fourth embodiments. Also in this embodiment, therefore, when a receiver who receives the envelope 45 intends to open the envelope, with his/her fingers pinching the end of the gummed tape G, the opening-side flap 15 pulls the portion of the perforation array M1 upward via the adhesive spots 10A for sealing. As a result, the envelope can be opened in a clear-cut fashion. As is clear from this embodiment, the present invention can be applied widely to containers having an opening-side flap 15 folded back to close the opening 8.

(Sixth Embodiment)

[0039] This embodiment refers to a paper envelope F6 (called rectangular No. 3 or rectangular No. 4) as shown in Figure 14 and Figure 15. A blank T1 to be folded to form the envelope comprises, in a developed state, a center sheet 2, outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 folded back on the periphery of the center sheet 2, and an overlapping flap 6 overlaid on the outer peripheral flaps 3 and 4.

[0040] The center sheet 2 has a rectangular shape on which a postal code number column is printed and an address is shown. It is formed on the four peripheral sides with the outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 and the overlapping flap 6 via fold lines 7a, 7c, 7b and 7d, respectively. The flaps are easy to fold back, with the fold lines 7a, 7b, 7c and 7d as the boundaries. The outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 in this embodiment are formed in their respective lengthwise directions with margins 9 to paste up, which margins are being pasted. On the other hand, the overlapping flap 6 is not formed with an adhesive spot 10A for sealing. The margins 9 to paste up may be ones to which a double-bonded tape is attached or an adhesive is applied over their entire surfaces.

[0041] The outer peripheral flap 3 on the upper side of the center sheet 2 is formed with an array of perforations M1 for opening, extending in the lengthwise direction. The upper side of the perforation array is formed with a margin 9 to paste up, which margin extends in the lengthwise direction and is being pasted, and the lower side of the perforation array is formed with spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B disposed at predetermined intervals. Since the perforation array M1 for opening extends over the entire area of the outer peripheral flap 3 in the lengthwise direction, it makes envelope opening easy. However, it may be formed at a part of the outer peripheral flap 3 at the center position of the length of the flap, thereby making it possible to open the envelope at the initial stage. In this case, the initial-stage opening force action can open the envelope up to its opposite ends. The outer peripheral flaps 4 and 5 on the bottom and left sides of the center sheet 2 are identical with those of an ordinary envelope. The interval of the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B is optionally set.

[0042] The overlapping flap 6 is a back sheet folded back to the back side of the center sheet 2 and assumes a substantially rectangular shape having substantially the same size as the center sheet 2. One of the right and left sides of the overlapping flap 6 (the upper side 6a in Figure 1: the outer peripheral end) is the portion serving as the opening 8 for opening the envelope. The outer peripheral end 6a (on the upper side) describes a gentle arc so that it is positioned inside a fold line 7a of the outer peripheral flap 3. It is noted that the outer peripheral end 6a may be formed with a corrugated portion of a size as large as the thumb so that the finger is easy to engage with. In this embodiment, an arrow mark for indicating the center position and the word "open" are printed on the overlapping lap at the outer peripheral end. Thus, a step is formed between the overlapping flap 6 and the outer peripheral flap 3 so that it can be pinched with the fingers. Here, it can be said that the overlapping flap 6 is one of the outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 and that each of the outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 is one of the overlapping flap 6. The envelope F1 in this embodiment is identical with an ordinary envelope except for the perforation array M1 for opening and the spread-preventing adhesive spots 10B. Therefore, it can be produced with ease using an ordinary envelope.

[0043] Perforation arrays M1, M2 and M3 used in the description are widely known arrays of minute perforations that are formed in an admission card or other such ticket for dividing it into two halves. However, it may be an array of largely cut scores or perforations easy to cut off (called "zipper-type perforations" and also called "bellows-type perforations"). Even with the minute perforations, a cut-off portion will not come out of the array of perforations. It is noted that the perforation array used herein includes widely known arrays of perforations, such as a series of continuous cutouts, in addition to the aforementioned perforation arrays. Furthermore, it includes the case where pasted portions are disposed at predetermined intervals, as described in the fourth embodiment that will be touched upon later. That is to say, in this embodiment, if the outer peripheral flap 5 and the overlapping flap are adhered at predetermined intervals with paste, cutout portions at predetermined intervals can be obtained. Therefore, this case is also included in this embodiment. The perforation array M1 is for opening the envelope and may comprise two or more arrays of perforations as occasion demands in practice.

[0044] When a developed blank K1 is to be folded to form an envelope F1, therefore, the outer peripheral flaps 3 and 4 are first folded down to the backside of the center sheet along the fold lines 7a and 7c, respectively. The overlapping flap 6 is then overlaid on and attached to the outer peripheral flaps. This formation order is shown from Figure 15 to Figure 16. In this way, the envelope F1 in this embodiment can be produced with ease. Since the arrow mark for opening is printed on the overlapping flap 6, it can form a criterion of the folding order. According to the envelope F1 of this embodiment, the contents S can be inserted into the envelope to reach the end of the envelope, similarly in the case of conventional envelopes. That is to say, if the contents S extend over the four peripheral sides of the envelope F1 as shown in Figure 17, the ends of the contents enter the underside of the outer peripheral flap 3 formed with the perforation array M1 for opening. Thus, the contents can be inserted to reach a position immediately before the opening 8. Therefore, if the contents have a large size like insurance certificates, contract-related documents, specifications, etc., these can be inserted into the envelope, similarly in the case of conventional envelopes.

[0045] In the envelope F6 of this embodiment having the aforementioned configuration, maintained in the state folded to form the envelope shown in Figure 16, contents S are inserted and sealed. The outer peripheral flap 5 is then folded back and attached to the overlapping flap utilizing the margins 9 to paste up. If a receiver who receives the sealed document pinches the outer peripheral end 6a of the overlapping flap 6, with the arrow mark printed thereon, using his/her fingers of one of the hands, also pinches the outer peripheral end of the outer peripheral flap 3 using his/her fingers of the other hand, and slightly pulls the pinched portions in the opposite directions, or otherwise, the receiver inserts a writing instrument, such as a ball-pointed pen, between the outer peripheral flap 3 and the overlapping flap 6 and moves it, part of the envelope is cut off along the perforation array M1 in a clear-cut fashion to open the envelope F6 as shown in Figure 18. While the receiver, when receiving the mailed envelope, does not recognize the presence of the perforation array M1 for opening from the outside, he/she can easily open the envelope in a clear-cut fashion with a small force using the arrow mark as a criteria, without use of a cutting tool such as scissors. After the envelope is opened, the portion of the perforation array M1 for opening is not discernible from the outside. Therefore, the (opened) envelope F1 is retained in a state of the cutout portion not discernible from the outside. When the part of the envelope has been cut out along the perforation array M1, the outer peripheral flap 3 is flexed inward as shown in Figure 18. For this reason, the contents S are prevented from dropping out of the envelope. The envelope F6 of this embodiment can be used, similarly to a conventional envelope, for a sender (sending side).

[0046] According to this embodiment, the overlapping flap 6 is overlaid on and attached to the outer peripheral flap 3 formed with the perforation array M1. For this reason, the presence of the perforation array M1 is not discernible from the outside. Therefore, there is no possibility of the envelope being readily opened during mailing and of the contents being wetted with rainwater that would otherwise enter the envelope. Furthermore, it is possible to avoid a hindrance to mechanical treatment at a post office (mailing office). This means that the "guideline relating to mechanically treatable mail (first-class and second-class mail)" can be satisfied. Moreover, the envelope of this embodiment can easily be produced by forming a conventional ordinary envelope blank with no perforation array, with an array of perforations and paying attention to the flap-folding order. It is noted that the envelope F1 of the present invention can easily be produced even from an envelope into which a conventional ordinary envelope blank is folded.

[0047] A modification of the aforementioned embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 19 and Figure 20, the opening 8 is disposed on the side (the lower side in the figures) opposite the side on which the postal code column is printed. Therefore, the outer peripheral flap 4 is formed in the lengthwise direction thereof with a perforation array M1 for opening. In addition, the lower side (outer peripheral end) 6b of the overlapping flap 6 describes a gentle arc so that it is positioned inside the opening side of the center sheet 2 (a fold line 7c) and has an arrow mark printed at the center thereof. Though the upper side 6a of the overlapping flap 6 also describes a gentle arc so that it is positioned inside the upper end of the center sheet 2, it may coincide with the upper end of the center sheet 2 because the upper end is not the opening side in this modification.

[0048] According to this modification, therefore, part of the envelope is cut off by pinching the opening side 6b with the fingers of one of the hands, pinching the outer peripheral end of the outer peripheral flap 4 with the fingers of the other hand and slightly pulling the pinched portions in the opposite directions, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, to open the envelope F1 in a clear-cut fashion.

(Seventh Embodiment)

[0049] As shown in Figure 21 and Figure 22, this embodiment discloses an envelope F7, the contents of which are taken out of the longer side of the envelope F7. A developed blank K2 folded to form an envelope comprises a center sheet 2 provided with outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5, and an overlapping flap 6. While the outer peripheral flap 5 on the left side in the figure is formed with a perforation array M2 for opening, that extends in the lengthwise direction, the outer peripheral end 6c of the overlapping flap 6 has an arrow mark serving as an opening criteria and a word "open" printed at the center in the lengthwise direction thereof. The outer peripheral end 6c of the overlapping flap 6 describes a gentle arc to form a part that is located inside a fold line 7b for the outer peripheral flap 5, thereby forming a step between the part and the fold line 7b so that the outer peripheral end 6c of the overlapping flap 6 can easily be pinched with the fingers.

[0050] When the blank is to be folded to form the envelope of this embodiment, the outer peripheral flap 5 is first folded down to the backside of the center sheet along the fold line 7c. The overlapping flap 6 is then overlaid on and attached to the outer peripheral flap, and thereafter the outer peripheral flap 4 is overlaid on and attached to the overlapping flap 6. This formation order is shown from Figure 21 to Figure 22. It is noted that it is possible to overlay the outer peripheral flap 4 on the folded outer peripheral flap 5 and overlay the overlapping flap 6 on the overlaid outer peripheral flap. In this embodiment, therefore, part of the envelope is cut off along the perforation array M2 by pinching the outer peripheral end 6c with the fingers, pinching the outer peripheral end of the outer peripheral flap 5 with the fingers and slightly pulling the pinched portions in the opposite directions to open the envelope F3 in a clear-cut fashion. The remaining constitution of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0051] It is possible to combine the constitution of this embodiment with the constitution of the modification of the first embodiment into an envelope. To be specific, the outer peripheral flap 4 is formed with a perforation array M2 for opening (the perforation array M1 in the modification of the first embodiment) to form the letter L in conjunction with the perforation array M2 for opening with which the outer peripheral flap 5 is formed, and the flaps are folded in the order mentioned. According to the envelope thus formed by folding the flaps, since the perforation array M2 of the outer peripheral flap 5 is continuous to the perforation array M1 of the lower side outer peripheral flap 4, the envelope can be opened in an L-shaped fashion to enable the contents S to be extracted.

(Eighth Embodiment)

[0052] As shown in Figure 23 and Figure 24, this embodiment applies the present invention to a rectangular shaped envelope F8. A developed blank K3 folded to form an envelope comprises a center sheet 2 provided with outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 and an overlapping flap 6. The outer peripheral flap 5 and overlapping flap 6 are overlapped at the center of the back wall of the envelope F3. The outer peripheral flap 4 on the bottom side is formed with an array of perforations M3 in the lengthwise direction thereof. An outer peripheral end 6b of the overlapping flap 6 adjacent to the outer peripheral flap 4 is formed to be disposed inward of a fold line 7c of the outer peripheral flap. Similarly, an outer peripheral end 15b of the outer peripheral flap 5 adjacent to the outer peripheral flap 4 is formed to be disposed inward of the fold line 7c. In this embodiment, since the outer peripheral flap 5 and overlapping flap 6 are overlapped at the center of the back wall of the envelope F3, it is noted that the positions of the two flaps may have a reverse relationship.

[0053] The envelope of this embodiment is formed, as shown in Figure 24, by folding the outer peripheral flap 4 back on the back wall along the fold line 7c, overlapping the outer peripheral flap 5 and overlapping flap 6 at the center of the back wall and attaching the overlapped flaps. The envelope F3 of this embodiment thus formed by folding can be opened in a clear-cut fashion along the perforation array M3, in the same manner as in the sixth and seventh embodiments, by pinching an outer peripheral end 4a of the outer peripheral flap 4 with fingers, pinching the overlapped outer peripheral flap 5 and overlapping flap 6 with fingers, and slightly pulling the pinched portions in the opposite directions. The remaining constitution of this embodiment is the same as that of the sixth embodiment.

(Ninth Embodiment)

[0054] As shown in Figure 25 and Figure 26, this embodiment applies the present invention to a paper envelope (called rectangular No. 3 or rectangular No. 4) F9. A developed blank T4 to be folded to form an envelope comprises a center sheet 2 provided with outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5 folded back and an overlapping flap 6 overlaid on the outer peripheral flaps 3, 4 and 5. It is folded to form an envelope, similarly to each of the preceding embodiments, provided that none of the perforation arrays M1, M2 and M3 formed in the preceding embodiments is formed. The overlapping flap 6 is overlaid on the folded back outer peripheral flap 3, and the flaps 3 and 6 are attached to each other at predetermined intervals. The attached portions are indicated by reference numeral 11. To be specific, an adhesive such as paste etc. is applied to the outer peripheral flap 3 in the lengthwise direction, and the overlapping flap 6 is attached to the outer peripheral flap 3 at the predetermined intervals. Various patterns of attachment between the outer peripheral flap 3 and the overlapping flap 6 are conceivable, such as in the form of dispersed dot application of an adhesive such as paste etc., partial application thereof and application thereof at varying intervals. The remaining constitution of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment and is omitted from the description. However, adhesive spots 10B for preventing the outer peripheral flap 3 from being spread outward from the overlapping flap 6 may provided at predetermined intervals.

[0055] Although this embodiment is provided with none of the perforation arrays M1, M2 and M3 (the perforation array M1 of the outer peripheral flap 3 in the first embodiment), since the outer peripheral flap 3 and overlapping flap 6 are attached to each other at the predetermined intervals, the attached portions function like one of the perforation arrays M1, M2 and M3. A receiver who receives the envelope F4 pinches both predetermined portions of the outer peripheral flap 3 and overlapping flap 6 with his/her fingers and pulling the pinched portions in the opposite directions, or otherwise, inserts a writing instrument such as a ball-pointed pen between the outer peripheral flap 3 and the overlapping flap 6 and moves the writing instrument, with the result that the attached portions are cut off to enable easy and infallible opening of the envelope.

Industrial Applicability

[0056] The present invention has been described in the foregoing in the form of various embodiments, citing paper envelopes. However, it is also applicable to an envelope having a window formed by attaching a transparent plastic film to the front side, from which the address and appellation printed on the contents are discernible from the outside, and widely to other envelopes irrespective of the kinds thereof. In addition, while the embodiments have been described, citing so-called rectangular No. 3 and No. 4 envelopes and so-called rectangular shaped envelopes, it goes without saying that the present invention is applicable widely to any kind of envelope and also to paper containers like envelopes.

Claims

1. An envelope comprising an opening-side flap folded back to close an envelope opening and adhered to an opening-side wall of the envelope with an adhesive, and characterized by an array of perforations that is formed along the opening for use in opening the envelope and covered with the flap that has been adhered.

2. An envelope comprising an opening-side flap folded back to close an envelope opening and adhered to an opening-side wall of the envelope with an adhesive, and characterized by a plurality of adhesive spots for sealing disposed at predetermined intervals so as to seal a proximal end side of the flap and a plurality of adhesive spots disposed at predetermined locations on a distal end side of the flap for preventing outward spread of the flap.

3. An envelope characterized in that it comprises at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, that the outer peripheral flap is formed in a lengthwise direction with an array of perforations, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered to the outer peripheral flap with an adhesive.

4. An envelope according to claim 1 or claim 3, characterized in that said opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap is provided with a plurality of adhesive spots for sealing disposed at predetermined intervals so as to seal a proximal end side of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap, and a plurality of adhesive spots disposed at predetermined locations on a distal end side of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap for preventing outward spread of the opening-side flap or outer peripheral flap.

5. An envelop characterized in that it comprises at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered at predetermined intervals to the outer peripheral flap.

6. An envelop according to claim 2 or claim 4, characterized in that said overlapping flap has an outer peripheral end adjacent to the outer peripheral flap and that said outer peripheral end has a part disposed inward of a fold line of the outer peripheral flap.

7. A blank folded to form an envelop, comprising, in a developed state, at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and characterized in that the outer peripheral flap is formed in a lengthwise direction with an array of perforations, and that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered to the outer peripheral flap.

8. A blank folded to form an envelop, comprising, in a developed state, at least one outer peripheral flap provided on an outer periphery of a center sheet of the envelope and folded back and an overlapping flap for overlapping the outer peripheral flap, and characterized in that the overlapping flap is overlaid on and adhered at predetermined intervals to the outer peripheral flap.

Drawing